Tags: "Katie Harding"

After seeing the movie War Room, I am even more convinced that God is raising up an army of women who will go to battle in praying for those in our families, neighborhoods, and communities.

Recently as I was reading 1 Chronicles 12, I wondered how do we, as the army God is gathering for Jesus, compare with the army the Lord gathered for David? As I pondered this thought, I've discovered 10 attributes of David's warriors and came up with 10 questions to help us evaluate our own growth as prayer warriors.

Please take a minute to read through these 10 descriptions, stop and ponder each question fully, and be honest in your answer. These questions can help you understand where growth might be needed in your own prayer life.

In 1 Chronicles 12, David's men were...

1. Dedicated Fighters (Am I committed in my prayer life?)2. Good Leaders (Do I help influence others in understanding the importance of prayer?)3. Skilled in using Shields for Protection (Am I using my "Shield of Faith," God's Word, to protect me in battle?)4. Relevant (Do I pray for the needs of those nearest?)5. Battle Ready (Do I pray on God's armor each day?)6. Cream of the Crop (Do I give God my best in prayer?)7. Eager (Am I excited for the opportunity to do battle in prayer?)8. Loyal (Do I offer constant prayer support to others, remembering to pray when I say I will?)9. United (Am I willing to join others in praying for the needs in our area?)10. Determined (Am I willing to meet with God each day and not let my busy schedule stop me?)

I don't know how you "scored" on the questions above; I just know that for me there is always room for improvement. God is calling up His army of women, will you be ready?

Last Thursday, I had the privilege of hearing The Rev. Angelo Chatmon preach at the morning session of the Northern Virginia Baptist Association Annual Meeting in Gainesville. Rev. Chatmon is the Director of University and Church Relations and University Pastor of Virginia Union University.

Pastor Chatmon's very first phrase, "Sometimes God brings people together to enrich each others lives," was a sentiment that resonated deeply within my heart.

Next Tuesday, September 1, we will celebrate the 12th Anniversary of NorthStar Women's Network! This time of year is always one of much reflection as I am greatly aware of the women who have become not only very close friends and sisters in Christ through our Network, but are also partners in ministry. Without NWN, I may have never met the women I serve/have served with on our Advisory Board, Conference Leadership Teams and Ministry/Resource Teams.

I can't even imagine my life without them. Friendships have been forged that will one day follow us into retirement (many years from now if anyone is wondering!), and I am in awe of how God has enriched my life through these beautiful godly women who continue to encourage, pray, and walk alongside. They have brought laughter, shared tears and worked tirelessly to help draw women closer to Christ. Today, I thank God for blessing my life with their friendships.

Who has greatly enriched your life? Take a moment today and offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for each woman, and then let them know by email, phone call, card or text how grateful you are to have them in your life!